North Austin commuters will soon see a new set of toll lanes on US 183, slated to open in early 2026, if they’re willing to pay.
Project Overview
The Central Texas Regional Mobility Authority (CTRMA) is leading a $612 million project that will add two new toll lanes in each direction, one new non-tolled lane, direct connector ramps at Mopac and 183, and pedestrian and bicycle paths to a nine-mile stretch of US 183 from Mopac to SH 45 North.
The lanes will operate like the existing Mopac Express Lane, with variable toll pricing that rises as traffic increases.
Construction Details
Since 2022, crews have been installing the new lanes and infrastructure. They will also lay 11 000 new delineator sticks-flexible white posts similar to those on the Mopac Express Lane-each taking seven minutes to install.
Opening Timeline
Mike Sexton, a spokesperson for CTRMA, said, “We’ve just been waiting to get this open for a while. We’re excited that it’s coming to fruition.” He added, “We’re still targeting the 1st week or so of January to get the 1st section open, which is the northbound 183 section. So basically, if you’re driving on 183 today and heading north, passing Burnet, you’ll be able to enter the express lanes and go all the way up to 620 and start using the express lanes,”.
The direct connector toll ramp from Mopac to 183 will open next, followed shortly by the southbound lanes and the southbound connector. “Maybe mid-February, end of February, you’ll start seeing that the entire project is open. They’ll still be work continuing for several months afterwards. We got to do cleanup, landscaping, but the roadway will be open and people will be able to enjoy that commute and you’ll see a reduction in travel time and just better opportunities for people to get home,” Sexton said.
Future Plans
After the lanes open, crews will finish cleanup and landscaping, and the roadway will be fully available to commuters. The new system aims to reduce travel times and provide a smoother commute for drivers willing to pay the variable tolls.
Key Takeaways
- The US 183 toll lanes will open in early 2026, adding two toll lanes each direction and a non-tolled lane.
- Construction began in 2022 and includes 11 000 new delineator sticks and new connector ramps.
- The project costs $612 million and is led by CTRMA, with variable toll pricing based on traffic.
The new toll lanes promise reduced travel times and a smoother commute for drivers willing to pay the variable tolls.
